Terminating TOP SECRET Cables in Cabinets
TOP SECRET cables must be connected only in designated TOP SECRET cabinets for security purposes.
Plain language
This control means that any cables carrying highly classified information, labelled as TOP SECRET, should only be hooked up in cabinets specifically designed for such sensitive data. This is crucial because if these cables are connected in an improper place, it increases the risk of this very sensitive information being accessed by unauthorised people, leading to national security concerns.
Framework
ASD Information Security Manual (ISM)
Control effect
Preventative
Classifications
TS
ISM last updated
Aug 2018
Control Stack last updated
19 Mar 2026
E8 maturity levels
N/A
Section
Cabling infrastructureOfficial control statement
TOP SECRET cables are terminated in an individual TOP SECRET cabinet.
Why it matters
Improperly terminated TOP SECRET cables risk unauthorised access, potentially leading to critical national security breaches.
Operational notes
Verify TOP SECRET cable terminations are only within the individual TOP SECRET cabinet, and inspect cabinets routinely for unauthorised terminations.
Implementation tips
- The IT team should identify all the TOP SECRET cables within the organisation. They can do this by reviewing network diagrams and consulting with key staff who manage classified information.
- Facility managers should work with the IT team to designate specific cabinets as TOP SECRET cabinets. This involves setting aside secure locations and labelling them clearly as only for TOP SECRET cables.
- An IT manager should oversee the installation of the TOP SECRET cables in these designated cabinets. This means ensuring only authorised staff with the right security clearance perform the installation.
- Security officers should ensure regular checks are done to verify that the TOP SECRET cables remain within their designated cabinets. This can be done monthly through physical inspections and comparing against the network layout.
- Staff responsible for handling these cables should receive training on the procedures for managing TOP SECRET cables. This training should cover how to properly terminate cables and the importance of maintaining their secrecy within the designated cabinets.
Audit / evidence tips
-
Askthe list of designated TOP SECRET cabinets within the facility
Goodis a dated document listing each cabinet's location with a security officer's approval
-
Goodis a list showing clearance levels and dates of training completed
-
Askrecent inspection reports of the TOP SECRET cabinets. Verify that these reports were conducted routinely as per the policy and document any findings or non-compliance
Goodincludes signed inspection logs
-
Goodincludes up-to-date certificates of completion with specified training content
-
Askthe policy document that outlines the procedures for terminating TOP SECRET cables
Goodis a policy document with specific procedures and a last review date
Cross-framework mappings
How ISM-1100 relates to controls across ISO/IEC 27001, Essential Eight, and ASD ISM.
ISO 27001
| Control | Notes | Details |
|---|---|---|
| layers Partially meets (1) expand_less | ||
| Annex A 7.12 | ISM-1100 requires TOP SECRET cables to be terminated only within an individual TOP SECRET cabinet, which specifies a precise location for... | |
These mappings show relationships between controls across frameworks. They do not imply full equivalence or certification.